By: Greg Koch
​
Downtown Sioux Falls has always been more than just a place — it’s a feeling. A rhythm. A community. I know this deeply, both as the owner of 605 Running Company and as someone fortunate enough to serve as Board Chair for Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. (DTSF).

Through that lens, I get to see — and be part of — the remarkable work being done to support our small business ecosystem. One of the initiatives I’m most proud of is the Retail Roundtable, a group of independent retailers who regularly come together to talk shop, share ideas, and build real community.

This group is filled with brilliant, generous, and creative business owners and managers. Every time we meet, I leave feeling more hopeful. In a time that has felt heavy and uncertain for many of us in retail, this group has been a reminder that we’re not in it alone.

Enter: Spring Fling
Our next big adventure together is Spring Fling — a grassroots effort that brings together some of the most dynamic local retailers to spread positivity and joy throughout Downtown. It’s not just about sales or traffic; it’s about celebrating the people and places that make this district vibrant and unique.

Spring Fling will take place April 12 through April 19. During this week-long celebration, when you visit participating businesses, you’ll have the chance to enter a drawing for a $25 gift card to one of the participating shops. Every participating business is giving away a gift card — and the more places you visit and support, the more entries (and chances to win) you earn. It's a simple and fun way to explore Downtown and maybe score a little something for yourself in the process.

Here’s who’s joining in on the fun: Alcove, Bella Rosa Flower Market, Combine, Child’s Play Toys, Gist Wine Shop, Great Outdoor Store, Lauriebelles, Mary’s Mountain Cookies, Matchbox Candle Company, Midnight Spark, MINT + BASIL, MK Threads Boutique, Nyberg’s Ace, Pasque Boutique, Plum’s, Primp Boutique, Say Anything Jewelry, Serendipity Studio Gallery and Gifts, Simply Perfect, Sticks and Steel, Terra Shepherd Boutique & Apothecary, The Green Penny, The Spice and Tea Exchange, Thomas James and Bechtold Jewelry, Vital Flow Infusions, Zandbroz Variety, and of course, 605 Running Company.

Each of these businesses represents a labor of love, often kept afloat by the sheer willpower and determination of its owner.

The Reality of Retail Today
The timing of this event couldn’t be more significant. We are in an extraordinary moment for small business. One of our Downtown neighbors recently turned to the community with a crowdfunding campaign to keep their doors open. Others have quietly shared their fears and fatigue, confiding that they aren’t sure they’ll make it through the year.
I’ve felt that pressure too. While 605 Running Company is having a solid year overall, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t tight. Bills are piling up, and foot traffic — our lifeblood — has been inconsistent. When I broke it down for our team, I realized that if we could just sell shoes to 2.5% of Sioux Falls’ population, we’d be thriving. That sounds simple, but the reality is far more complex.

This is why Spring Fling matters. It’s not just an event. It’s a lifeline. It’s a reminder that we are better together, that collaboration can spark new life into our shared spaces, and that there is still joy to be found in this journey.

Feet on the Ground
In the coming weeks, I’ll be spotlighting participating businesses through this blog and on social media. I’ll also be walking the Downtown district — not just because it’s good for the soul, but to show just how walkable and accessible our neighborhood really is. There are a lot of misconceptions about parking and navigation in the district, and I’m on a mission to help clear that up one step at a time.

As part of these walks, I’ll be sharing shoe recommendations from our store that are perfect for exploring Downtown comfortably and confidently. Whether you’re on a lunch break, shopping day, or a Spring Fling adventure, I’ve got tips to keep you moving in the right direction — with the right footwear.

Supporting More Than Just Sales
605 Running Company is proud to host a food drive for Feeding South Dakota during Spring Fling. Donation barrels are available at both of our locations. This effort is in partnership with local runners Lance Smith and Barry Sackett as part of their inspiring Kwik Star 50K initiative. You can learn more about that here: https://www.runsiouxfalls.org/calendar/kwik-star-50k-for-feeding-sd

Why Local Matters
Guilt doesn’t sell shoes — and it doesn’t build lasting community either. What does matter is honesty, transparency, and connection. I love Sioux Falls. I love being in business here. And I want to keep doing this work for a long time.

By choosing to shop local, you’re not just keeping businesses open — you're helping maintain the character, charm, and resilience of our city. In a time of national and global uncertainty, our local economy is a bright spot. Supporting small businesses is one of the most powerful ways we can protect our slice of heaven here in flyover country.

Stay tuned as I share more Downtown stories — and shoes — one step at a time.

Greg Koch is the owner of 605 Running Company and serves as Board Chair of Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. He believes in the power of community, comfortable shoes, and saying the quiet part out loud when it comes to running a business.

By: Tait Hermanson, Fit Advisor
 
The On Cloudsurfer made its way into the scene with a huge splash. Now with the launch of the Cloudsurfer 2, many have been excited to try the second iteration. On has been gaining momentum in the walking, working, and running community. You may have seen many people walk around featuring the stylish Cloudtech. You may have also seen the Superbowl ad featuring Roger Federman, and the iconic Elmo, beloved by all. In the advertisement Elmo and Roger discuss the logo on the Cloudsurfer 2. Elmo argues that the logo says “QC” while Roger calmly explains it states “ON”. Check out the advert for yourself here.
The previous Surfer suffered from being too soft, the Cloudsurfer Next a little on the firmer side, now the Surfer 2 seems to have struck the perfect balance. Is the Cloudsurfer meant for you? If you have ever tried on a shoe here at 605 Running Company featuring rocker technology and enjoyed the experience, the Cloudsurfer 2 might be perfect for you.
The Surfer 2 is made for all your daily runs: Long runs, short runs, and if you need it to, quick speed workouts. I have also seen success in the track scene, if you or someone you know needs a good pair of shoes for Middle - High school track practice the Surfer 2 is a great option. So, if you want a running shoe that can pick up the pace, looks great, and features a rocking geometry, stop down at either of our locations to try it yourself.

By: Greg Koch

​As the owner of 605 Running Company, from a family of entrepreneurs, and someone who is so independent I was born on the fourth of July, I recently took a bold step.

I applied for a job.

You read that right. I took the time to write a resume that speaks to what I’ve been doing for over a decade. I sourced references I believed would speak highly of me. I prayed about it. I got excited about the possibility of doing something new. Yes, I was ready to leave my role as President of my own company.

Why?

Let’s talk about the job. If I'm being honest the thought of not having to provide my own salary for once was very appealing. Investing that money into my current team, new products, or new leadership was nothing short of intriguing; and for real cash flow is always on my mind. Knowing that, I wouldn't take these steps for just any opportunity. Over the past nine months, I’ve dug deep into what makes small, independent businesses successful. I've taken a lot of classes, attended seminars, and read profusely. I wrote a lot on our blog about the challenges and struggles of running our business. Once I started doing that, something amazing happened: other business owners started seeking me out for advice, support, and encouragement.

I was bold enough to say the hard things out loud, and it turns out my struggles were shared by many others. Through this, I began to feel a calling to do more. I wasn’t sure what that would look like until a friend suggested I apply for a role opening in academia—a job that offered unique opportunities to impact our community in meaningful ways.

It feels good to have champions in your corner. Around the time I was considering the position, I went for a run with another friend—someone who works with leaders across the state. This friend told me most leaders don’t necessarily seek out their most impactful roles; instead, someone nudges them toward something they hadn’t yet imagined for themselves. That conversation hit hard. It felt like a nudge toward something special.

So, I did it. I applied. This wasn’t the first time in the past decade that I put myself out there, but it was by far the most serious effort I’ve made. I worked hard to sell myself through a resume, references, and a cover letter. That might surprise some people.

The reality is this: I’ve made significant financial sacrifices to keep 605 Running Company going. This isn’t a complaint. It’s a fact. As someone who’s now been on the hiring side of things, many times for a lot of different roles over the past several months, I see what people in Sioux Falls expect to earn for professional work. For years, I have earned less than what many entry-level jobs pay. An eye opening discovery if I'm being honest. 

That’s why I had to at least explore this opportunity. Let’s be real—my job at 605 Running Company has always been one of passion for me. My work has been fulfilling in nearly every way. My wife has had a long-standing rule: I have to love my job. I’ve not shied away from the fact that she is the breadwinner in our family and her corporate position with all of its benefits allows me to be an entrepreneur. Her rule is clear. I have to LOVE my job and believe me I do.

Back to the job I recently applied for: it was exciting. The work was spoke to my passions. The organization is beloved by my entire family. I had a strong champion pushing me to apply. The pay was competitive for what I've hired other people to do in our community. It was local. I felt like I checked almost every box in the job description.  

Except one: I don’t have a Master’s degree.

That, I’ve been told, was a deal breaker.

Despite having references with Doctorate degrees and plenty of academia experience, despite my decade of real-world experience building a business from the ground up, I didn’t even get a call. Not even an email. I only found out I wasn’t moving forward through a friend involved in the hiring process. After a long period of hearing nothing I can't say I was shocked at the news. 

This hurt. It was humbling. Frustrating. And yes, the process made me angry. Not because I didn’t get the job—but because I didn’t even get a chance. I now know how so many job seekers feel when they pour their heart into an application and get ghosted.

Still, I’m nothing if not a lifelong learner. I recently spoke about resiliency through injury in our monthly mindset webinar with Coach Lauren. One thing I’ve learned: to be resilient, you must adopt a growth mindset. I could fixate on the missing advanced degree that I never had time to pursue. I could believe I’ll never be worthy of a great opportunity. Or I can look at this experience as a lesson.

And I’m choosing the latter.

As a business owner, this experience has already made me rethink how we hire, how we value people, and how we support our team. More importantly, it’s sparked a desire to explore new ways we can grow and offer more. We’ve started asking bigger questions about what’s possible—even when the answers aren't easy or obvious. But this process pushed me to try.

I’ve started researching what benefits and programs might be possible for my team. It’s a slow process, and it feels overwhelming at times, but it’s a step forward. I’m also creating the 605 Running Collective—an advisory board to help elevate our business. I don’t have all the answers. And that’s okay. I’m resilient enough to know what I don’t know.

Books are great. But they don’t hold all the answers.

In the past six months, I’ve also done a lot of work on myself. I’ve realized I’ve been burnt out for a while. The lack of engagement in things that used to bring us energy—demo runs, races, clinics, community events—has been difficult to manage. We’ve innovated, adjusted, and adapted constantly. But sometimes it feels like all people care about is a discount, deal, or a product we've never been able to carry.

I believe a business should make the community better. I volunteer for many different organizations. I give even when I have nothing to give. And yet, I sometimes feel like an imposter in my own community. It hurts when people turn their backs on our team because of price or ego. It’s exhausting being made out as a villain for standing up for my business and its bottom line. I'm well aware that I don't always get things right. I’ve done a lot of personal work to not take things personally—even when we’ve been abandoned or taken advantage of. It’s not easy, but it's necessary to keep moving forward with clarity and purpose.

To my amazing team: I have full faith in all of your abilities. I wouldn't even consider looking for a different job if I didn't trust that we have a crew that could continue to push us forward without me in a leadership role. One of our core values is transparency. I'm not afraid to talk about this experience and to be open about my role within my own company. This year, I’ve invested more 1-on-1 time with each team member and challenged myself to lead with accountability. It’s working. We’ve been operating in a really strong, successful way in 2025—and that’s a direct reflection of your effort and commitment.

But I’ve come to understand that the only way forward is with intention, reflection, and a willingness to grow—even when the path is unclear.

So I keep building. Coaching. Training. Guiding. Teaching. Trying to make a difference. I’m not perfect. I was never trying to be. I’m just committed to learning, leading, and moving toward better.
​
This first quarter of 2025 has been a season of growth—personally and professionally. I’ve taken meaningful steps to address burnout, refocus my energy, and lead with more intention. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made at 605 Running Company, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. The vision is becoming clearer every day, and I feel more confident than ever that we’re on the right path—one rooted in clarity, sustainability, and purpose.

And to be clear—I’m not actively seeking new employment. I belong at 605 Running Company. This is my home, my community, and the business I’ve poured my heart into. But just because I own the business doesn’t mean I can’t be open to new possibilities. If the right opportunity comes along that aligns with my values and growth as a leader, I’ll listen. I’m not even 40 yet, and I truly believe my best leadership years are still ahead of me.

P.S. If you’re out there trying, getting ghosted, or doubting yourself—I see you. You’re not alone.
​
This experience reminded me why I started 605 Running Company in the first place. It’s never just been about selling shoes—it’s always been about building something meaningful, creating space for others, and doing work that matters. That’s still the mission. And I’m more committed to it than ever.

By: Greg Koch

The last six months have been a time of major transition for 605 Running Company. I went from having five business partners to being the sole owner, which has meant rethinking how we operate, how we grow, and how we continue to serve this incredible community. While it has been a challenge, it has also been an opportunity to evolve, adapt, and refocus on our mission: to build an inclusive, thriving running ecosystem for everyone.

One thing I’ve learned during this time is that I don’t want to do this alone—and honestly, I shouldn’t. The best businesses are shaped by the communities they serve, and I want to invite you to be part of that process. That’s why I’m launching the 605 Running Collective, a group of passionate, engaged individuals who will help guide the future of our business and our local running community.

What is the 605 Running Collective?
The 605 Running Collective will be a small group—six to eight individuals—who care deeply about the future of running in Sioux Falls. This isn’t just about advising a business; it’s about helping shape a movement that keeps our local running culture strong. We need diverse perspectives, fresh ideas, and engaged voices who can help take 605 Running Company into its next chapter.

This initiative isn’t just about benefiting the business—it’s about developing future leaders. I strongly believe in continued education and professional growth. By engaging in this collective, our staff will have the opportunity to be accountable to this group, gain valuable leadership experience, and further their development in a transparent, community-driven way. The 605 Running Collective will be a key cog in our organizational chart, ensuring that we remain accountable to the community we serve.

Here’s how members of the 605 Running Collective will contribute:

• Bring Unique Perspectives to the Table: Whether you’re a coach, race director, business leader, or passionate runner, your experiences offer valuable insights. We need a variety of voices to help us innovate and push forward.
• Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Honest, constructive discussions about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can continue to grow will be at the core of this group. These discussions will be rooted in trust and confidentiality, allowing us to share raw facts about the business and gain valuable insight without fear of public dissemination. Members must respect that the information shared in this setting is for the benefit of the group and the business, not for external broadcast.  
• Be a Connector & Problem-Solver: This isn’t just about offering ideas—it’s about helping bring them to life. While this role is primarily advisory, there will be times when we need hands-on assistance. Whether it’s helping source volunteers for events, facilitating introductions to corporate partners, or ensuring our races run smoothly, members of this group will play an active role in making a real impact.
• Provide Steady Guidance in Key Moments: When big decisions arise—whether it’s launching a new program, expanding services, or navigating challenges—I want a trusted team to provide input and support. In our time in business, we’ve faced major shipping issues, a global pandemic, a shifting local landscape of challenges, and national turmoil. Managing these complexities as a retail business, an event business, and a coaching business is tricky. This group will help shape our messaging and response to evolving challenges that impact our business, ensuring that we remain adaptive and resilient.
  ​

Who Should Apply?
I’m looking for individuals who care about the future of our running community and want to actively shape it. Ideal candidates include:

• Local high school or college coaches who understand the needs of athletes at all levels.
• Board members of local running clubs who want to create deeper connections between our store and the broader running community.
• Race directors looking to collaborate and strengthen Sioux Falls’ running events.
• Passionate runners of all levels who love our sport and want to help others find joy in movement.
• Business-minded individuals who can offer guidance on operations, growth strategies, and community engagement.
  
  

Commitment & Expectations
This is a volunteer role—there are no extra perks, discounts, or swag. Joining the 605 Running Collective means you genuinely care about 605 Running Company and the community we serve. Your commitment is to help shape the future of this business and our local running ecosystem, not to receive incentives.
​

• Quarterly, In-Person Meetings: Attendance is expected in person—there will be no virtual option. Meetings will be scheduled in advance, and members are expected to prioritize their participation.
• Primarily an Advisory Role: This group will operate on a 95:5 advisory-to-action ratio. Your main role is to provide insights, feedback, and strategic direction. However, there may be occasional needs for assistance, such as sourcing volunteers, connecting with corporate partners, or helping execute key events.
• Commitment to Respect & Confidentiality: Members must respect the confidentiality of business discussions and commit to constructive, honest engagement.
• Three-Year Term: This will be a three-year commitment with the option to renew at the end of the term. 
• Ambassadors for the Brand: While this is an advisory role, members should be engaged in spreading awareness, supporting initiatives, and advocating for 605 Running Company within their networks.
  
  

Join Us & Shape the Future
605 Running Company has always been about more than just selling shoes—it’s about building something bigger. But to do that, I need your help, your voice, and your ideas. If you believe in what we do and want to make a real impact, I encourage you to apply.

I own this company, but I love this community. I want to be clear that while the final decisions about the business are mine alone to make, I deeply value guidance, support, and thoughtful challenge. To be part of this group is to believe in our mission and to be invested in my growth as a leader. I need people who are willing to support, uplift, and push me to be better—not just for the business, but for the community we serve.

I’ll be accepting applications and conducting interviews for the 605 Running Collective through the end of March, with a goal of holding our first meeting in mid-April. Let’s work together to ensure that Sioux Falls remains a place where movement is celebrated, supported, and accessible to all.

By: Greg Koch

At 605 Running Company, we believe in the power of local partnerships to bring our events to life. Today, we’re excited to feature the Sioux Falls Food Co+op, a community-owned grocery store dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable food options while fostering a strong sense of community. We sat down with Becky Squyer, Director of Marketing & Community Outreach, to learn more about their mission, their connection to the running community, and a favorite St. Patrick’s Day memory!
About Sioux Falls Food Co+op & Their Partnership

Can you introduce yourself and your business and tell us what you do?
I’m Becky Squyer, Director of Marketing & Community Outreach at Sioux Falls Food Co+op. We are a community-owned and operated grocery store, open to everyone—whether you’re a member-owner or not. Our focus is on providing high-quality products at competitive prices while fostering a sense of belonging in Sioux Falls.

What inspired your business to partner with 605 Running Company?
The Co+op is always looking for ways to be more involved in the community. Partnering with 605 Running Company connects us with a like-minded group of people who are engaged in caring for their bodies and making healthy choices.

What does supporting local events like this mean to your business?
As a community-driven grocery store, we believe that supporting local events helps us strengthen and grow our network of health-conscious, engaged individuals. Whether you’re a runner, a foodie, or both, we love connecting with people who care about what they put into their bodies.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your company?
We are open to everyone! While you can become an owner, you don’t have to be one to shop at the Co+op. We also focus on affordability with our Co+op Basics (everyday pantry staples at great prices), Co+op Deals (rotating sales), and Co+op Fresh Deals (discounts on produce). There’s something for everyone here!
​
Will your team be participating on race day?
We’re not sure yet about this specific race, but we are excited to participate in future races!

Do you have a favorite St. Patrick's Day memory?
For me, it’s participating in the Downtown Sioux Falls St. Patrick’s Day parade as a child! I’m a born-and-raised DTSF girl and have lived within a mile of Phillips Avenue my entire life.

A huge thank you to Becky Squyer and the Sioux Falls Food Co+op for their commitment to building a stronger, healthier Sioux Falls. Be sure to check them out next time you’re looking for fresh, high-quality food options in the heart of our city!